How to Install Vinyl Siding

The benefits of installing vinyl siding are numerous, and they include the fact that it’s really low maintenance, it beautifies your home, and it’s durable and long-lasting. So, it makes sense that you want to get in on the vinyl siding action by installing your own, and you’re in luck because we’ve got some really helpful tips on how to install vinyl siding Rochester, NY that we hope will make the process that much easier for DIYers.

Start from Scratch

To get the most out of the siding, you should remove all the materials covering the house until you get to the sheathing. Then, cover it with some house wrap, followed by a layer of foam and lastly, the vinyl siding.

Measure Everything

It’s important to have accurate measurements before you install siding contractors Rochester, NY and you won’t get them by deducting your windows and doors. Rather measure the house like you would a square, starting from the width, which is also known as the bottom-up approach.

Work with a Friend

Hanging vinyl from one ladder will drive you crazy, so get a friend to stand on a second ladder on the opposite end to help you hang it up.

Always Use a Level

Create a level line that goes around your house so that you can follow it to make sure that the installation is accurate. Keep in mind that you’ll be hanging the first vinyl piece on a starter strip which is usually 3 inches wide, 12 ft long and made from aluminum, so make sure to place a level on the sliding every 4 or 5 courses to check your level.

Cut the Siding Short

You want to cut your siding contractor Rochester, NY so that it doesn’t buckle when it expands during the summer, and it becomes easier to install into a corner once it’s been cut as well so it’s a win-win. The experts recommend that you cut off about ¼ or 1/8th of an inch on either end of the panel so that it’s easier to slide back and forth.

Hide the Seams

To ensure that the seams face the backyard instead of the front of the house, start at the back of the house and work your way around towards the street. Don’t overlap over a joint unless it’s absolutely necessary. Lastly, make sure you utilize the factory at the seams so that your overlap looks neat and well done.

Hang the Siding

As a rule, siding should never be nailed but rather hung onto the house. To do this, you have to make sure that the nails are set at least 1/8 to 1/16 inches from the wall. The vinyl siding Rochester, NY shouldn’t be set hard because there has to be space for it to contract and expand throughout the seasons.

Add Airflow

Create some ventilation by mounting perforated soffits that have gable vents, and maybe some ridge vents as well to maintain an even temperature in your attic and to protect your roof from getting warmed up from too much heat.